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Toronto Raptors Center Kelly Olynyk Impressed by Zach Edey’s Naismith Award Win
Toronto Raptors center Kelly Olynyk expressed his surprise and admiration upon learning that fellow Canadian Zach Edey had secured the Naismith Award for the second time as the player of the year in U.S. college basketball.
“That guy is nice,” Olynyk chuckled, emphasizing his point with a grin.
Edey’s Impressive Achievement
21-year-old Zach Edey, hailing from Toronto, made history by becoming only the third male player to capture consecutive Naismith Awards, following in the footsteps of legendary Hall of Famers Ralph Sampson and Bill Walton. Edey’s Purdue Boilermakers faced off against the UConn Huskies in the NCAA men’s basketball final on Monday night.
Edey’s stellar performance throughout the season has not gone unnoticed, with an average of 24.9 points per game, the highest in the NCAA men’s division. Additionally, his 12.2 rebounds per game rank him third in the collegiate rankings.
Olynyk’s Observations
Having developed a friendship with Edey through Canada’s national team program, Olynyk has witnessed firsthand the young player’s dedication, drive, and continual improvement. The pair secured a bronze medal together at the FIBA World Cup last September.
“He’s leaps and bounds better, like his improvement has been unreal,” Olynyk praised. “He’s a great kid, he wants to work, wants to get better. Takes criticism well.”
Olynyk went on to highlight Edey’s basketball IQ, noting his ability to read the game, make crucial plays, and showcase remarkable efficiency on the court. Standing at an imposing seven-foot-four and weighing 300 pounds, Edey’s physical presence coupled with his refined skills has set him apart in collegiate basketball.
“Just watching him play in college, he’s just so dominant and he’s super efficient. Playing the right way and literally just carrying his team,” Olynyk acknowledged.
Physical Transformation
In addition to his on-court prowess, Olynyk commended Edey’s physical transformation over the course of the NCAA season. Noting improvements in fitness, movement, strength, and balance, Olynyk emphasized the significant impact of Edey’s dedication to his overall well-being.
“Just all around, he’s just been a lot a lot better, but a lot of it has to do with his body,” Olynyk remarked. “It’s leaning out a little bit, his movement, strength and balance, all that kind of stuff, has improved.”
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